| I have an older african violet, approx. six years old that has been very productive and happy. Suddenly, it has begun to wilt, the leaves are just hanging. None of the light or water conditions have changed. Help! |
| There are several possible reasons for the symptoms you describe: dry air, too much sun, and incorrect watering. You say these haven't changed so I am puzzled. What about drafts, hot or cold? Anything new there? African Violets don't like drafts. Have you changed the location of the plant? Even if the light is the same, they sometimes respond negatively if moved at all. Have you changed fertilizers or changed fertilizing routine? That could be the problem. Have you repotted recently? There could be a problem there as well. They enjoy being somewhat rootbound. Is there any possibility of pests on your violet? Inspect the leaves and look for any residue, webbing, mold, insects, etc. It sounds like you have been a perfect caregiver over the years but let's go over it one more time: Try to provide even temperatures, bright light, (but not strong sunlight), keep the soil moist but not soggy, and use tepid water at the soil line rather than pouring water directly over the leaves. They need high humidity, so place the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and put water in the tray once a week. Or, mist with a fine spray regularly. You can feed them about every two months with a complete houseplant fertilizer (read and follow the label directions), or with a special African Violet fertilizer. Hope this helps.... |
